Nespresso Essenza Mini
Compact single-serve espresso machine by Nespresso. Uses proprietary capsules, 19-bar pump pressure, and fast heat-up time. Simple operation with two programmable cup sizes. Energy-efficient with auto shut-off feature. Ideal for space-constrained environments or users seeking convenient, consistent espresso.
Summary Rating: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4 out of 5 Nutz)
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a compact, single-serve espresso machine designed for those seeking convenience and quality in a small package.
As one of the smallest models in Nespresso’s lineup, it offers the brand’s signature espresso experience without demanding significant counter space. The machine utilizes Nespresso’s proprietary capsule system, promising consistent results with minimal effort.
Known for its quick heat-up time and energy-efficient operation, the Essenza Mini caters to urban dwellers, office environments, and anyone prioritizing simplicity in their coffee routine.
While it may lack the versatility of larger, more complex machines, it excels in delivering reliable espresso and lungo options at the touch of a button.
It’s Known for
Compact Design
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is renowned for its ultra-compact size, making it ideal for small kitchens, offices, or tight spaces. Its slim profile and minimal footprint are consistently highlighted as standout features.
Simplicity and Ease of Use
Users frequently praise the machine’s straightforward operation. With just two programmable buttons for espresso and lungo, it offers a no-fuss coffee experience suitable for beginners and seasoned coffee drinkers alike.
Quick Brewing
The Essenza Mini is known for its rapid heat-up time, typically ready to brew in about 25-30 seconds. This speed, combined with its simple operation, makes it a popular choice for those seeking a quick morning coffee.
Consistent Quality
Despite its small size, the machine maintains Nespresso’s standard 19-bar pressure pump, ensuring a reliable espresso quality with a good crema. Many users note the consistency of the coffee produced.
Energy Efficiency
The automatic power-off feature, which activates after 9 minutes of inactivity, is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect, contributing to the machine’s energy-efficient operation.
Limited Versatility
While praised for its simplicity, the Essenza Mini is also known for its limited drink options. It’s primarily designed for espresso and lungo, which may not suit those looking for a wider range of coffee styles.
Compact Water Tank and Capsule Container
The small 20.3-ounce water reservoir and capsule container that holds 5-6 used capsules are often noted. While fitting the compact design, they require more frequent refilling and emptying compared to larger models.
Pros and Cons
The Nespresso Essenza Mini offers a compact, user-friendly espresso experience with quick heat-up and consistent quality. However, it’s limited in drink options and capacity, relying solely on Nespresso capsules. Its simplicity and small size are both strengths and weaknesses, depending on individual needs and preferences.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Single-serve capsule espresso machine |
| Dimensions | 8.4 cm (width) x 33 cm (depth) x 20.4 cm (height) |
| Weight | 2.3 kg |
| Water Tank | 0.6 litres (20.3 ounces), removable |
| Hopper | N/A (uses Nespresso capsules) |
| Pump | 19 bar high-pressure pump |
| Grinder | N/A (uses pre-ground coffee in capsules) |
| Heater | Thermoblock |
| Frother | N/A (no built-in frother) |
Standout Features: (1) ultra-compact design for small spaces, (2) rapid 25-30 second heat-up time, (3) energy-efficient auto shut-off feature, (4) 19-bar high-pressure pump for consistent espresso quality, and (5) programmable buttons for customised drink volumes.
Design and Build
Aesthetic Appeal
The Nespresso Essenza Mini boasts a sleek, modern design that prioritises minimalism. Available in two distinct shapes – a rounded model and a more angular version – it caters to different aesthetic preferences. The machine comes in various colours, including black, white, and vibrant options like red and lime green, allowing users to match their kitchen decor. Its compact size contributes to its visual appeal, making it an unobtrusive addition to any countertop.
Durability and Construction
Despite its small size, the Essenza Mini is built with Nespresso’s typical attention to quality. The outer casing is made of durable plastic, which, while not as premium as metal, helps keep the machine lightweight. The water tank, though small, is sturdy and securely attaches to the main unit. The drip tray and used capsule container are well-constructed and easy to remove for cleaning. However, as with many compact machines, some users report that the moving parts, such as the lever for inserting capsules, may require gentle handling for longevity.
Ease of Use and Ergonomics
The Essenza Mini excels in user-friendliness. Its simple interface consists of two programmable buttons for espresso and lungo, making operation straightforward even for coffee novices. The lever mechanism for inserting and ejecting capsules is smooth and intuitive. The removable water tank, while small, is easy to refill and reattach. The machine’s compact size means all controls are within easy reach, though this can also mean a bit of manoeuvring when refilling the water tank in tight spaces. The drip tray is adjustable to accommodate different cup sizes, enhancing its ergonomic design.
Performance
Brewing Process
The Essenza Mini utilises Nespresso’s standard capsule brewing system. It punctures the capsule and forces hot water through it at high pressure, extracting the coffee efficiently. The 19-bar pump ensures optimal extraction, producing espresso with a satisfying crema. The machine offers two pre-set drink sizes: espresso (40ml) and lungo (110ml), which can be reprogrammed to suit individual preferences.
Temperature Stability
Despite its compact size, the Essenza Mini maintains good temperature stability. The thermoblock heating system quickly reaches the optimal brewing temperature and maintains it consistently throughout the extraction process. This results in espresso served at the appropriate temperature, typically between 85°C and 90°C. However, for those who prefer very hot coffee, the relatively small volume might cool quickly in the cup.
Consistency of Results
One of the Essenza Mini’s strengths is its ability to produce consistent results. The combination of the capsule system, high-pressure pump, and precise water volume control ensures that each cup is brewed to a similar standard. This consistency is particularly beneficial for users who value reliability in their daily coffee routine. However, the machine’s dependence on Nespresso capsules means that the variety and quality of coffee are limited to what Nespresso offers.
Speed and Efficiency
The Essenza Mini excels in speed and efficiency. It heats up in approximately 25-30 seconds, significantly faster than many larger machines. Once heated, it can brew an espresso in about 20-30 seconds. The energy-saving mode, which activates after 9 minutes of inactivity, contributes to its overall efficiency. However, the small water tank and used capsule container mean more frequent refilling and emptying, which could slow down the process for heavy users or in office settings.
Coffee Taste
Flavour Profile of Coffee Produced
The Essenza Mini produces espresso with a well-rounded flavour profile, typical of Nespresso capsules. The taste is generally smooth and balanced, with notes varying depending on the chosen capsule. Most users report a satisfying depth of flavour, though some coffee enthusiasts might find it less complex than freshly ground beans.
Crema and Body
Despite its compact size, the machine consistently produces espresso with a decent crema. The 19-bar pressure pump ensures a golden-brown layer atop each shot, contributing to a pleasant mouthfeel. The body of the espresso is generally good, though not as rich as some higher-end machines or manual methods might produce.
Extraction Consistency and Customisation
Extraction consistency is a strong point of the Essenza Mini. The capsule system and precise water control result in reliable flavour from cup to cup. Customisation options are limited to adjusting water volume, which allows some control over strength but not over other extraction parameters.
Milk-Based Drinks
The Essenza Mini does not include a milk frother, limiting its capability for milk-based drinks. Users need to purchase a separate frother or manually heat and froth milk for lattes or cappuccinos. This extra step can affect the overall taste and temperature of milk-based beverages.
Versatility with Different Roasts
The machine’s performance with different roasts is entirely dependent on Nespresso’s capsule range. While this range includes various intensities and flavour profiles, it doesn’t offer the same level of versatility as machines that use whole beans or ground coffee.
Aroma and Aftertaste
The aroma of the espresso is generally pleasant and pronounced, thanks to the high-pressure extraction. The aftertaste varies depending on the capsule but is typically clean and not overly lingering. Some users note that the aroma can be less intense than freshly ground coffee.
Acidity and Bitterness Balance
Most Nespresso capsules are designed to produce a balanced espresso with moderate acidity and controlled bitterness. The Essenza Mini generally maintains this balance well, though the inability to adjust brewing parameters means users can’t fine-tune these aspects to their preference.
Comparison with Other Brewing Methods
Compared to manual espresso machines, the Essenza Mini offers convenience at the expense of some depth and complexity in flavour. It produces a more consistent and richer espresso than most pod machines or drip coffee makers. However, it may not match the nuanced flavours achievable with high-end espresso machines or manual brewing methods like pour-over or French press.
Versatility
Range of Coffee Styles
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is primarily designed to produce espresso and lungo. These two styles form the foundation of its offerings, with the machine featuring dedicated buttons for each. While this covers the basic needs of many espresso drinkers, it falls short for those seeking a wider variety of coffee styles directly from the machine.
Adjustability and Customisation Options
The Essenza Mini offers limited customisation options. Users can adjust the volume of water used for each brew, allowing for some control over the strength and intensity of the coffee. This is done by pressing and holding the espresso or lungo button until the desired amount is reached, and the machine will remember this setting for future use.
Capsule Variety
The machine’s versatility is largely dependent on Nespresso’s capsule range. Nespresso offers a variety of flavours and intensities, including options for different roast levels and origin-specific blends. This provides some degree of choice, albeit within the confines of the Nespresso ecosystem.
Milk-Based Drinks
The Essenza Mini does not come with a milk frother, which limits its ability to produce milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or lattes directly. Users need to heat and froth milk separately, either manually or with an additional device, to create these beverages.
Temperature Control
There is no option for adjusting the brewing temperature on the Essenza Mini. The machine operates at a preset temperature, which may not suit those who prefer their coffee particularly hot or those who enjoy experimenting with different extraction temperatures.
Brew Strength
While the water volume can be adjusted, there’s no direct control over brew strength or pressure. The 19-bar pump operates at a fixed pressure, and the extraction time is predetermined by the machine.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ease of Cleaning
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is designed for straightforward cleaning. The drip tray and used capsule container are easily removable and dishwasher-safe. The water tank can be quickly detached for rinsing and refilling. The machine’s exterior can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. However, the small size of the used capsule container means it requires more frequent emptying compared to larger models.
Descaling Process
Descaling is necessary to maintain the machine’s performance. The process is relatively simple, involving running a descaling solution through the machine. The Essenza Mini alerts users when descaling is needed, typically after 300-1200 uses depending on water hardness.
Required Maintenance
Regular maintenance for the Essenza Mini is minimal. Apart from descaling, users should rinse the water tank regularly and clean the capsule insertion area to prevent coffee residue build-up. It’s recommended to run water through the machine before the first use of the day to clean internal components.
Capsule System Maintenance
The capsule system requires little maintenance beyond emptying the used capsule container. The machine automatically ejects used capsules into the container, reducing the need for manual intervention.
Longevity and Reliability
The Essenza Mini is built to be durable despite its compact size. Many users report several years of reliable use with proper care. The simplicity of its design, with fewer moving parts compared to more complex espresso machines, contributes to its reliability.
Warranty and Support
Nespresso typically offers a two-year warranty for the Essenza Mini, providing peace of mind regarding potential defects. The company’s customer support is generally responsive, assisting with troubleshooting and replacement parts when needed.
Long-term Performance
With regular descaling and proper maintenance, the Essenza Mini can maintain its performance over time. However, as with any small appliance, intensive daily use may shorten its lifespan compared to more robust, commercial-grade machines.
Value for Money
Price Point Analysis
The Nespresso Essenza Mini typically retails between £80 and £100, positioning it as an entry-level espresso machine in the Nespresso range. This price point makes it accessible for those new to pod-based coffee systems or those seeking a compact, no-frills espresso maker. However, it’s worth noting that the ongoing cost of Nespresso capsules should be factored into the overall value assessment.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compact Pod Machines
The Essenza Mini competes well with other compact pod machines like the Tassimo Vivy and Dolce Gusto Piccolo in terms of size and simplicity. It outperforms these in espresso quality due to its higher pressure pump, but lacks their versatility in drink options.
Entry-Level Espresso Machines
Compared to manual entry-level espresso machines like the DeLonghi Dedica or Sage Bambino, the Essenza Mini offers easier operation and consistency but sacrifices customisation and the ability to use fresh ground coffee.
Other Nespresso Models
Within the Nespresso range, the Essenza Mini provides similar coffee quality to more expensive models like the Pixie or CitiZ, but with fewer features and a smaller water tank. It represents the most affordable entry point into the Nespresso system.
Long-Term Value
While the initial cost is low, the reliance on Nespresso capsules makes it more expensive in the long run compared to machines that use ground coffee. However, for those prioritising convenience and consistency, this may be a worthwhile trade-off.
Build Quality and Durability
The Essenza Mini’s build quality is good for its price point, competing well with brands like Krups and DeLonghi in terms of reliability. However, it may not match the longevity of more robust, higher-priced espresso machines.
Ease of Use
Learning Curve
The Nespresso Essenza Mini boasts an exceptionally shallow learning curve. New users can typically master its operation within minutes. The machine features just two buttons for espresso and lungo, making it nearly foolproof. The capsule insertion and ejection process is straightforward, requiring minimal instruction. Even tasks like water tank refilling and drip tray emptying are intuitive and simple to grasp.
Daily Usability
In terms of daily use, the Essenza Mini excels in simplicity and speed. Its rapid heat-up time of about 25-30 seconds means users can have their coffee quickly with minimal waiting. The compact size makes it easy to access and operate, even in cramped kitchen spaces. However, the small water tank (0.6 litres) and used capsule container (5-6 capsules) may require more frequent attention in households with heavy coffee consumption.
Programmable Buttons
While simple, the machine does offer some customisation. Users can reprogram the water volume for both espresso and lungo buttons by pressing and holding until the desired amount is reached. This feature adds a layer of personalisation without complicating the user experience.
Quirks and Unique Aspects
Auto Shut-Off Feature
A notable aspect of the Essenza Mini is its energy-saving auto shut-off feature, which activates after 9 minutes of inactivity. While beneficial for energy conservation, new users might need to remember to turn the machine back on if they wait too long between brews.
Limited Drink Options
Unlike more complex coffee machines, the Essenza Mini is designed primarily for espresso and lungo. This focused functionality could be seen as a limitation or a benefit, depending on the user’s preferences and expectations.
Capsule Dependency
The machine’s reliance on Nespresso capsules is both a quirk and a key aspect of its usability. While it ensures consistency and ease of use, it also means users are locked into the Nespresso ecosystem for their coffee choices.
Comparison with other Products
How it Stacks Up Against Similar Products
The Nespresso Essenza Mini competes primarily in the compact, single-serve espresso machine market. Compared to the Tassimo Vivy and Dolce Gusto Piccolo, the Essenza Mini offers superior espresso quality due to its 19-bar pressure pump. However, it lacks the drink variety of these competitors, focusing solely on espresso and lungo.
When compared to entry-level manual espresso machines like the DeLonghi Dedica or Sage Bambino, the Essenza Mini offers easier operation and more consistent results. It sacrifices the ability to use fresh ground coffee and the option to manually froth milk, which these machines provide.
Within the Nespresso range, the Essenza Mini delivers similar coffee quality to the more expensive Pixie or CitiZ models, but with a smaller footprint and water tank. It lacks some of the premium features of these models, such as used capsule detection or larger water reservoirs.
What Makes It Unique or Preferable
Ultra-Compact Design
The Essenza Mini’s standout feature is its extremely compact size. At just 8.4 cm wide, it’s one of the smallest espresso machines on the market, making it ideal for small kitchens or office spaces where counter space is at a premium.
Rapid Heat-Up Time
With a heat-up time of approximately 25-30 seconds, the Essenza Mini outperforms many competitors in terms of speed. This quick start feature is particularly appealing for those seeking a fast morning coffee solution.
Energy Efficiency
The auto shut-off feature, which activates after 9 minutes of inactivity, sets the Essenza Mini apart in terms of energy efficiency. This feature is not always present in competitors at this price point.
Consistency and Ease of Use
While some may view the capsule system as a limitation, it ensures a level of consistency in espresso quality that’s hard to match with manual machines at this price point. The simplicity of operation makes it accessible to users of all experience levels.
Real World Experiences
Aggregate of User Experiences
Users generally report high satisfaction with the Nespresso Essenza Mini. Many appreciate its compact size, ease of use, and the quality of espresso it produces. The machine is often praised for its reliability and consistency in daily use. However, some users express concerns about the ongoing cost of capsules and the limited drink options.
Common Praise
Compact Design
Users frequently commend the Essenza Mini’s small footprint, making it a popular choice for those with limited counter space.
Ease of Use
The simplicity of operation is widely appreciated, with many users highlighting the quick start-up and straightforward brewing process.
Espresso Quality
Many users are impressed by the quality of espresso, noting the rich crema and full-bodied taste comparable to more expensive machines.
Quick Heat-Up Time
The rapid heat-up feature receives consistent praise, particularly from those who value a quick morning coffee routine.
Energy Efficiency
The auto shut-off feature is often mentioned positively, with users appreciating the energy-saving aspect.
Common Complaints
Small Water Tank
Some users find the 0.6-litre water tank too small, requiring frequent refills, especially in households with multiple coffee drinkers.
Limited Drink Options
The lack of milk frothing capability and the focus solely on espresso and lungo is a drawback for those who enjoy a variety of coffee drinks.
Capsule Cost and Availability
A common concern is the ongoing cost of Nespresso capsules and their availability compared to ground coffee or other pod systems.
Noise Level
While not excessively loud, some users note that the machine can be noisy during operation, which may be an issue in quiet environments.
Temperature Consistency
A few users report that the coffee temperature could be hotter, particularly for those who prefer very hot beverages.
Sustainability
Environmental Impact
Capsule Recycling
The Nespresso Essenza Mini’s reliance on aluminium capsules raises environmental concerns. Nespresso offers a recycling programme for these capsules, but its effectiveness depends on user participation. The aluminium is recyclable, but the process requires specific facilities, which may not be available in all areas.
Materials and Manufacturing
The machine’s compact size means less material is used in its production compared to larger coffee makers. However, like most small appliances, it contains plastic components which have environmental implications in terms of production and end-of-life disposal.
Coffee Sourcing
While not directly related to the machine itself, Nespresso’s coffee sourcing practices impact the overall environmental footprint of using the Essenza Mini. Nespresso has sustainability programmes in place, but the single-serve nature of capsules generally results in more packaging waste compared to bulk coffee purchases.
Energy Efficiency
Power Consumption
The Essenza Mini is designed to be energy-efficient. Its power consumption is relatively low, typically around 1150-1260 watts when in use, which is comparable to or lower than many other espresso machines.
Auto Shut-Off Feature
One of the machine’s most notable energy-saving features is its automatic shut-off function, which activates after 9 minutes of inactivity. This helps to reduce unnecessary power consumption, particularly beneficial for users who might forget to turn off the machine.
Quick Heat-Up Time
The rapid heat-up time of 25-30 seconds not only improves user convenience but also contributes to energy efficiency by reducing the time the machine needs to draw power for heating.
Standby Mode
When not actively brewing but still on, the Essenza Mini enters a low-power standby mode, further minimising energy consumption.
Accessories and Upgrades
Available Add-ons
Milk Frothers
While the Essenza Mini doesn’t come with a built-in milk frother, Nespresso offers compatible standalone frothers like the Aeroccino. These allow users to create milk-based drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes.
Capsule Storage Solutions
Various capsule storage options are available, from drawer-style containers to wall-mounted dispensers, helping to organise and display Nespresso capsules neatly.
Cup Warmers
Though not specific to the Essenza Mini, cup warmers can be a useful addition, especially for those who find the coffee temperature insufficient.
Descaling Kits
Nespresso provides descaling solutions specifically designed for their machines, ensuring proper maintenance and longevity.
Travel Cases
For those who want to take their Essenza Mini on the go, specialised travel cases are available, offering protection and portability.
Potential for Future Upgrades
Software Updates
As a basic model, the Essenza Mini has limited potential for software updates. Any future upgrades would likely be minor and focused on improving energy efficiency or brewing algorithms.
Hardware Modifications
The compact and streamlined design of the Essenza Mini leaves little room for significant hardware upgrades or modifications by the user.
Compatibility with Future Capsules
Nespresso occasionally introduces new capsule varieties or limited editions. The Essenza Mini should remain compatible with these, barring any major changes to the capsule design.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Future upgrades might focus on improving the machine’s sustainability, such as incorporating recycled materials in manufacturing or enhancing energy efficiency further.
Smart Home Integration
While not currently a feature, future models might include smart home connectivity, allowing for remote operation or integration with home automation systems.
Conclusion
Final Verdict
The Nespresso Essenza Mini stands out as a compact, efficient, and user-friendly espresso machine. It delivers consistent, high-quality espresso with minimal fuss, making it an excellent choice for those new to home espresso brewing or those with limited space. The machine’s rapid heat-up time and energy-saving features are notable advantages. However, its reliance on Nespresso capsules may be a drawback for some, both in terms of ongoing costs and environmental concerns. While it excels in simplicity and consistency, it lacks the versatility of more advanced espresso machines, particularly in creating milk-based drinks.
Recommendation (Who Should Buy This)
Space-Conscious Coffee Lovers
The Essenza Mini is ideal for those living in small flats, studio apartments, or anyone with limited kitchen counter space. Its compact design makes it suitable for office environments as well.
Espresso Enthusiasts Seeking Convenience
This machine is perfect for individuals who appreciate good espresso but don’t want to invest time in learning complex brewing techniques. It’s well-suited for busy professionals or anyone who values speed and consistency in their morning coffee routine.
Nespresso Newcomers
For those interested in trying the Nespresso system without a significant initial investment, the Essenza Mini offers an affordable entry point.
Single-Serve Households
The machine’s capacity and design make it most suitable for individuals or small households where only one or two cups of coffee are typically consumed at a time.
Travellers and Holiday Home Owners
Due to its compact size and simple operation, the Essenza Mini could be a good choice for those looking to bring their coffee maker on trips or install in a holiday home.
Not Recommended For:
- Large households with heavy coffee consumption
- Those who prefer a wide variety of coffee drinks, especially milk-based beverages
- Coffee enthusiasts who value the ability to use freshly ground beans or experiment with brewing parameters
- Individuals concerned about the long-term cost and environmental impact of capsule systems
Detailed Ratings
Overall score
🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4 out of 5 Nutz)
The Nespresso Essenza Mini earns a solid 4 out of 5 on our Coffee Nutz rating scale, reflecting its excellent performance as a compact, single-serve espresso machine. It offers great value for money and meets the needs of those seeking convenience and consistency in a small package.
Subscores for key aspects
Performance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Consistently good espresso quality
- 19-bar pump pressure for optimal extraction
- Quick heat-up time
Value for Money: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Competitive pricing for a Nespresso machine
- Good build quality for the price
- Consider ongoing capsule costs
Design: 🌰🌰🌰🌰🌰 (5/5)
- Ultra-compact, space-saving design
- Sleek, modern aesthetic
- Available in various colours
Versatility: 🌰🌰½ (2.5/5)
- Limited to espresso and lungo
- No built-in milk frothing capability
- Dependent on Nespresso capsule range
Ease of Use: 🌰🌰🌰🌰🌰 (5/5)
- Extremely simple operation
- One-touch brewing
- Easy capsule insertion and ejection
Maintenance: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Simple cleaning process
- Descaling alert system
- Small parts require more frequent attention
Durability: 🌰🌰🌰🌰 (4/5)
- Well-built for its size and price point
- Reliable performance over time
- Potential issues with heavy, long-term use
Milk Frothing: 🌰 (1/5)
- No built-in milk frothing capability
- Separate milk frother required for milk-based drinks
Speed and Efficiency: 🌰🌰🌰🌰🌰 (5/5)
- Rapid 25-30 second heat-up time
- Quick brewing process
- Energy-efficient with auto shut-off feature
Customisation: 🌰🌰 (2/5)
- Limited to adjusting water volume
- No temperature or pressure control
- Capsule system restricts coffee customisation
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the machine to heat up?
The Nespresso Essenza Mini heats up in approximately 25-30 seconds. Once you turn the machine on, the lights will blink during the heating process and become steady when ready to brew.
Can I make milk-based drinks with this machine?
The Essenza Mini does not have a built-in milk frother. However, you can:
- Purchase a separate Nespresso Aeroccino or other milk frother to make cappuccinos or lattes
- Use the machine to brew espresso and add heated milk separately
How often do I need to descale the machine?
Descaling frequency depends on water hardness and usage, but generally:
- The machine will alert you when descaling is needed
- Typically, descale every 3-6 months or after 300-1200 uses
- The process takes about 15 minutes
What is the water tank capacity?
The Essenza Mini has a 0.6-litre (600 ml) water tank. This typically allows for:
- 5-6 espressos before refilling
- 2-3 lungos before refilling
Can I adjust the coffee temperature?
The Essenza Mini does not have a temperature adjustment feature. However, to ensure the hottest possible coffee:
- Preheat your cup with hot water before brewing
- Run a blank cycle (without a capsule) to heat the system before brewing
How do I program custom coffee volumes?
To program custom volumes:
- Insert a capsule and place a cup under the outlet
- Press and hold the Espresso or Lungo button
- Release the button when the desired volume is reached
- The machine will remember this setting for future brews
What’s the capacity of the used capsule container?
The used capsule container can hold 5-6 used capsules. It’s recommended to empty it regularly to prevent overflow and maintain hygiene.
Is the Essenza Mini energy efficient?
Yes, the machine is designed with energy efficiency in mind:
- It automatically enters power-saving mode after 9 minutes of inactivity
- You can extend this to 30 minutes if preferred
- The quick heat-up time also contributes to its energy efficiency
Can I use non-Nespresso capsules in this machine?
The Essenza Mini is designed for use with Nespresso-brand capsules. While some third-party capsules may fit, using them:
- May void your warranty
- Could potentially damage the machine
- Might not produce the same quality of coffee
How loud is the Essenza Mini during operation?
The Essenza Mini is generally considered quiet for an espresso machine. However:
- It will make some noise during the brewing process
- The pump operates at 19 bars of pressure, which creates some sound
- Compared to larger espresso machines, it’s relatively quiet
